Karnataka Minister's Bizarre Defence Of "Go Die" Remark To Farmer

"It is better to die. Actually, that is the reason we have stopped giving. Please don't call me" Umesh Katti told a farmer

A farmer's query about cuts in PDS rice allotment has led to a harsh, insensitive response from a minister in Karnataka. Umesh Katti, the state's Food and Civil Supplies Minister, lashed out when a farmer quizzed him about the staples being offered to the poor by the government, citing Covid-induced lockdowns and poor income. The audio conversation is being widely circulated in the state. BJP Minister Umesh Katti has abused a citizen & asked him to 'go die' just because he asked him why Karnataka Govt has cut Rice under PDS to just 2 kgs!CM @BSYBJP must immediately throw him out of the cabinet for this most insensitive statement.Does this Govt have any shame? "Sir now you made it 2 kg rice (in PDS). How will it be sufficient for us?" the farmer had asked. When the minister replied that the government is also giving 3 kilos of raagi, the farmer argued it was not available in north Karnataka. Mr Katti said in North Karnataka, the government is distributing made jowar and Rice. This was how the conversation went then: Farmer: Sir, will that be sufficient? Lockdown now and we don't earn our livelihood. Will that be sufficient, Sir?Minister: Every month, the Central Government is giving 5 kg (wheat or rice) during lockdown. In the month of May and June...Farmer: When are you giving?Minister: Next month.Farmer: Till then, should we starve or die?Minister: It is better to die. Actually, that is the reason we have stopped giving. Please don't call me.